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Reducing fossil fuels use while promoting the adoption of clean and renewable energy sources is crucial for mitigating climate change and attaining the sustainable development goals. This study investigates the driving forces of the share of non-hydroelectricity sources in total electricity generation. Using panel data of forty-six developed and developing countries over 1980–2011 and employing panel cointegration estimation techniques, we examine the key factors that influence the share of non-hydro renewable energy sources in the short and long run. The results of the study show that the driving factors have different impacts on the size and share of non-hydro renewable energy; and these impacts are mostly in the long run. Oil price increase and financial development has a significant positive effect on the amount and share of non-hydro renewable electricity generation. The impact of trade openness is ambiguous. Economic development enhances the size of non-hydro renewables but undermines its share in total electricity. Foreign direct investments, ratification of the Kyoto protocol, gross fixed capital formation and resource rent have no significant impact on non-hydro renewable electricity generation. Based on the results, appropriate policy recommendations are proffered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solar photovoltaic systems are considered vital renewable energy sources for mitigating climate change and reducing dependency on fossil fuels. However, in some countries, the diffusion rate of photovoltaic systems is decreasing. A case in point is Germany, the country with the highest installed capacity of photovoltaic systems. Given the new conditions in the German market, the diffusion rate continuously declined in both 2012 and 2013. Whether the diffusion rate will again take off is not known. While the recent literature has pointed out that local solar companies have a vital driving role in diffusion, not many studies have yet discussed the business models and challenges such local companies may have. Through an extensive case study, this paper explores the business model of a local solar company in a town of 43,000 habitants in Southern Germany. The case of this company tells about an important business model challenge. Overcoming such challenges may not only let the company survive but also drive the diffusion of solar photovoltaic systems in the region. The results include implications for both industrial actors and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]